"The current fervour surrounding the apparent support for the emission trading scheme is like asking people if they want to get married. Overwhelmingly they do but to whom is the real question. The problem is when we arrive at the emission trading scheme altar we might be a little surprised as to who is waiting for us.

"Australians, naturally enough, have the best intentions for wanting a better world but the costs, ramifications and outcomes for Australia to participate in an individual crusade have not been properly spelt out to the Australian people.

"Without China, India, Russia, USA and Canada on board, our intentions become a form of pious amendment to any future global trading scheme. Will the Australian fervour for a trading scheme which, for all intents and purposes, will not make any difference to the global climate be as strong later as it is now when the bill turns up in the mail to pay for it?

"In reflection of the current Nielsen poll results, what would make an interesting proposition for the appropriate polling bodies to question could be:

1. Do you believe in an emissions trading scheme?
2. How much do you wish to pay for it each week? Please tick the appropriate box:
$20, $100, $300, your job, more
3. After answering question 2, do you wish to change your answer to question 1?

"The only major participant in an emissions trading scheme currently is the EU whose economic fundamentals are entirely different to a resource driven economy such as Australia's. Australia's participation does look a little like the proud mother at the passing out parade proclaiming 'There goes my son; he's the only one in step.'

"A more cautious, effective and diligent approach may be to work with and wait for those economies which really will make a difference. To be too enthusiastic at the outset may only change one thing – the desire of Australians to be part of delivering an outcome."

Ends